Basic tripod for ST80

[Pharian]

Hi,

I'm looking for a basic tripod/mount that I can mount my Orion ST80 on for grab and go.

Something like the Skywatcher AZ3 (link below) would be perfect, but $250 seems a lot for a new one.

Anyone got something similar they would like to sell? Preferably that will take a narrow dovetail mounting plate, or a square mount (ie, the clamp mount for the ST80)

Cheers, Chris

Something like this would do the job! https://www.bintel.com.au/product/skywatcher-az3-mount/?v=322b26af01d5

[Aron]

Try give this a call?
https://www.opticscentral.com.au/scratch-dent

[doppler]

Same az3 mount as in your link but cheaper.

http://www.astroanarchy.com.au/Mounts/Saxon_AZ3.html

[Outcast]

Chris,

Before you spend money on an AZ3, you should seriously go and check one out in the flesh... I suspect you will be sorely disappointed... IMHO they are one of the worst mounts going...

Whilst I know you balked at the $249 or so BINTEL want for an AZ3 there are some seriously better options, although they do cost a little bit more.

One option is the GSO Skyview Mount - best price available is through Andrews Communications, Graystanes NSW @ $299 although I note they are currently sold out with stock due in Jan 2021.

I've owned two of these, moved the first one on by mistake... bought another one.. :shrug: Only recently moved it on when I upgraded to a Stellarvue M2C pushto, with encoders mounted atop a Berlebach... not a particularly cheap exercise... :eyepop:

For the money, they are excellent...

Bintel has this mount too but, they're $100 more for reasons I don't understand....

Another option is a Skywatcher AZ5 but, again, the price is climbing upwards..

Please, have an 'in the flesh' look & perhaps use the AZ3 before you actually commit to one... If you like it, then by all means, have at but, there are much, much better mount options available... even if budget limited.

Cheers

[Pharian]

Awesome, thanks guys! Much appreciated.